St. Patrick's Day Blessing
I wish you not a path devoid of clouds,
Nor a life on a bed of roses.
Nor that you should never feel pain.
My wish for you is:
That you might be brave in times of trial, when others lay crosses upon your shoulders.
When mountains must be climbed and chasms *crossed,
When hope scarce shines through.
When every gift God gave you might grow **along with you,
And let you give the gift of joy to all who care *for you.
That you might always have a friend who is **worth that name,
Who will defy the storms of life by your side.
That in every hour of joy and pain, you may be *close to God.

